A poll of likely Florida Democratic voters shows Charlie Crist holding a solid lead over Nikki Fried in the gubernatorial race.
The latest St. Pete Polls poll, conducted for Florida Politics, shows more than 49% favoring Crist, a Democratic congressman from St. Petersburg and a former Republican governor. About 24% prefer Fried, the current Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Pollsters polled 1,007 registered Democrats and reported a 3.1% margin of error in the results. The survey was conducted on June 16 and 17.
The poll shows a slight tightening of the race since the St. Pete Polls released their last primary poll in May. But it still indicates that Crist is on the cusp of a 50% majority. It also shows more undecided voters, 26%, than the number committed to Fried.
The poll shows that Fried, the only Democrat holding a statewide office in Florida, needs to sway most of the undecideds in the race.
Since the last poll, a third candidate in the race, state Sen. Annette Taddeo, has dropped out of the gubernatorial race and qualified to run for Congress.
The latest poll indicated poll leaders with all racial demographics. About 51% of black voters plan to vote for Crist, while 17% want Fried, with that group also showing the most undecided voters at 32%. Crist wins more than 49% of white voters, while Fried has 27% support by comparison. Crist leads with Asian voters 70%-10% and Hispanic voters 49%-26%.
Nearly 50% of male voters prefer Crist, while about 24% prefer Fried. Among female voters, Fried performs better and exceeds 25% support, but about 43% still plan to vote for Crist.
Crist commands the most substantial support among young voters under the age of 30, with more than 60% choosing him in the poll while more than 22% chose Fried. He also wins over voters over the age of 70, with 52% choosing him and 20% favoring Fried. Poll in the 40s with voters 30-70, but Fried remains stuck in the top 20?
Notably, Crist’s 25 percentage point lead in the poll shows a different state of the race than internal polling recently released by the Fried campaign, which showed her within striking distance of Crist.
First in Sunburn: The Southern Group locks up veteran public safety guru Jared Torres. Torres, a veteran of three-gubernatorial administrations, joins Florida’s leading influencer firm, The Southern Group. He brings experience in public safety, criminal justice, and health and human services to the firm known for its deep policy expertise and lobbying ability.
Torres’ comprehensive legislative and political experience is based on his leadership roles with both the Agency for Persons with Disabilities and, for the past seven years, the Florida Department of Corrections (FDC).
“Jared is a subject matter expert with a detailed and nuanced understanding of the executive and legislative branches where he has earned the respect of his peers,” said firm founder and chairman Paul Bradshaw. “But even rarer than that, he has displayed a determination and work ethic that few people can match, and those traits have propelled him rapidly up the ladder of state government. Temperamentally, he fits perfectly into our team.”
Torres’ passion for public service and the government process began long before his term in Tallahassee. A school field trip to the capital city many years ago with a Take Stock in Children group first sparked his interest in government. Since then, making Florida communities safer has been one of Torres’ top priorities. His successes include securing hard-earned assignments and fine-tuned policies that improved security within the prison system itself.
“Jared Torres’ passion for service is at the heart of everything he does. Your investment in serving others helps you be an effective communicator and influencer,” said Representative Sam Garrison. “The Southern Group is lucky to have him on the team.”
Read the full story on Torres’ hiring here.
First in Sunburn: Respected legislative and regulatory affairs law firm Meenan announced that Aaron Lunt, Kirsten Matthis and William Anderson are new shareholders in the firm, effective May 1.
Lunt is an attorney licensed in Florida and Illinois and holds the Authorized Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) and Reinsurance Associate designations. He has served as general counsel for a third-party administrator for automotive service contracts, GAP waivers, and related protection products.
“We have worked with Aaron for many years on some of the most challenging issues facing the insurance and service contract industries and saw this as an excellent opportunity to pool our resources on behalf of the firm’s clients,” said managing shareholder Tim Meena.
Matthis joined Meenan in 2015 as an associate. His practice focuses on complex matters of civil and administrative litigation, and regulatory law. Anderson joined Meenan in 2017 as an associate. He earned a degree in risk management/insurance and economics from Florida State University and focuses his practice on licensing and compliance in the service contract, warranty, motor vehicle ancillary products, risk retention groups and industries. insurance.
“Kirsten and William are excellent examples of the caliber of service that Meenan P.A. provides our customers. We are proud to give a well-deserved recognition to these talented attorneys for this achievement they have achieved through dedication and hard work,” said Tim Meenan.
Meenan also recently welcomed Rob Henderson and Kelsey Carlton to the firm.
Henderson, previously an assistant vice president of USAA, became legal counsel for the firm. Carlton is a 2021 graduate of FSU School of Law. He has worked for the Department of Financial Services and the Florida Bar. She has also worked for the Governor and most recently served as deputy human resources director for the Florida Republican Party.
President @JoeBiden leaves church on Saturday night and indicates he is fine after falling off his bike. pic.twitter.com/JwLhSmcXTP
— Nikki Schwab (@NikkiSchwab) June 18, 2022
—@CliffSchecter: Hearings work. People watch attractive television. Shape your perceptions. Add more live audiences
—@TheRickWilson: Dan Crenshaw’s story should be a lesson to the Republican legacy. Don’t think the alligator won’t eat you.
—@GeorgeTakei: Who was grooming and recruiting all those Proud Boys? That is what i want to know.
—@BonillaJL: The institution of a federal holiday that celebrates the abolition of the evil that was slavery should not be a controversial issue.
—@SonnyBunch: The soft opening of LIGHTYEAR is interesting because it can confirm a lot of background. It’s a.) the natural result of Disney teaching people to watch Pixar movies in D+ or b.) a backlash against “awakened” cinema or c.) proof that America remains tragically homophobic or d.) franchise fatigue.
—@TomArnold: Being a good parent means being there for your kids after you screwed up promising the roller coaster wouldn’t be scary. Happy father’s day
2022 Florida Chamber Learners to Earners Workforce Solution Summit—8; Premieres of ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’: 19; 36th Annual School of Environmental Permits — 29; San Diego Comic-Con 2022—33; Beyoncé releases seventh solo studio album ‘Rebirth’ – 39; Michael Mann and Meg Gardiner Publish Novel ‘Heat 2’ – 51; FRLA Marketing and Operations Summit — 58; ‘House of the Dragon’ premieres on HBO — 62; 2022 Florida Chamber of Technology & Innovation Solutions Summit — 72; ‘Andor’ premieres on Disney+ — 72; Premiere of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ on Amazon Prime — 74; NFL Opening Night: LA Rams vs. Buffalo Bills — 80; 2022 Emmys: 84; Premieres of the sequel to ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’: 109; Annual Meeting of the Florida Chamber & Florida Future Forum — 126; Cormac McCarthy’s ‘The Passenger’ Releases: 127; Jon Meacham’s ‘And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle’ Releases: 127; Premieres of ‘Black Panther 2’: 143; FITCon 2022 kicks off — 150; Premieres of ‘The Flash’: 150; The World Cup starts in Qatar — 154; USA World Cup soccer team starts play: 154; McCarthy’s ‘Stella Maris’ Releases: 155; Florida TaxWatch Annual Meeting Begins — 163; ‘Willow’ Premieres on Disney+ — 163; Premieres of ‘Avatar 2’: 177; Premieres of ‘Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’: 241; The 2023 Legislative Session is convened — 259; Premieres of ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’: 277; 2023 Session Sine Die—319; ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. Premieres of 3’ — 319; Premieres of ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’: 347; Premieres of ‘Captain Marvel 2’ — 403; Premieres of ‘Dune: Part Two’: 487; Premieres of Part 2 of ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’: 648; 2024 Olympic Games opening ceremony — 767.
“Ron DeSantis Raises Big Cash From Donald Trump Donors” via POLITICO Florida’s Matt Dixon – While many donors focus on November, when the governor is up for re-election, DeSantis’ fundraising indicates that he is a viable 2024 candidate who may not need the former president’s endorsement and one who is sapping some of Trump’s financial support.
“I think Ron’s fundraising really speaks for itself,” said Francis Rooney, a former construction company owner, longtime Republican donor and former Florida congressman set to impeach Trump in 2019. “It’s possible that the Trump’s percentage of Republicans will continue to drop, and I think people may start looking elsewhere.”
DeSantis has dramatically expanded his national presence and following among conservatives across the country, who have been drawn to his anti-COVID-19 shutdown policies and staunch opposition to pandemic-related mandates. He recently began running neck-and-neck with Trump or even beating the former president in opinion polls in early 2024, leaving some of the GOP’s biggest donors writing huge checks to DeSantis when that could still carry political risk.
“I know a lot of donors who are in wait-and-see mode,” said Shiree Verdone, who served as Trump’s Arizona campaign co-chair for his presidential campaigns. “They really like DeSantis a lot, who is very popular, but you don’t want to upset Trump.”
– “Is DeSantis tough enough for a campaign fight with Trump?” via David Charter of The Times
“DeSantis Slams Joe Biden in White House for Promoting Two Bogus ‘Child Shooting’ Stories” via The Capitolist’s Brian Burgess: Left-leaning newsrooms, eager to smear DeSantis, gleefully reported that Florida was the only state in the nation not to pre-order the supply of the COVID-19 vaccine before the expected approval of the Federal Drug Administration for use of the vaccine in children between 6 months and 5 years of age. And that is true. But those media outlets didn’t stop there. The political spin also seeped into their stories to paint a completely false account of the demand, or lack of it, to vaccinate young children. For example, according to the Miami Herald, Florida’s political stance guaranteed “a delay in access for parents across the state, according to two US government sources.” The claim seemed to have no basis in reality.
“When it comes to disparaging his black constituents, DeSantis just can’t help it,” via Miami Herald’s Fabiola Santiago: DeSantis’s reaction to Elon Musk’s apparent endorsement, when asked about it at a news conference on Florida could have gone many ways. For example, you might have replied something like, “I’m focused on 2022… but I’m flattered by the vote of confidence.” But no, what DeSantis came up with was the ugliness we’ve come to associate with the governor when it comes to minorities: “I’m focused on 2022, but with Elon Musk what I would say is: I appreciate the support of African Americans.” . What can I say?” He was putting on a show for white people consuming what he was serving at this press conference. They nodded as he spoke and laughed at his point that Musk was born in South Africa, a country that was once ruled by a system of institutionalized racial oppression where the white minority ruled over the black majority.
—”Bill Maher Insists DeSantis Would Be ‘Much Better’ Than Trump: ‘You Can’t Certify He’s Crazy'” via Joseph A. Wulfsohn of Fox News
“Police Fraternal Order Endorses Marco Rubio Over Val Demings” via Scott Powers of Florida Politics: Senator Rubio dealt another blow to Rep. Demings’ effort to highlight her police record when he announced Friday that he had received the endorsement of Florida Fraternal Order of Police in his United States Senate contest. The endorsement, made in Demings’ backyard in Lake Buena Vista, is another the Miami Republican has drawn from the ranks of law enforcement. Endorsements from the generally more conservative Police Benevolent Association, 55 Florida Sheriffs, and the Florida Police Chiefs Association followed. Demings’ campaign has been running television ads across the state this week, praising her 27 years as an Orlando police officer, including nearly four as Orlando’s police chief.
“Who is tougher on crime in the big Senate race?” via Bill Cotterell of the Tallahassee Democrat: In the opening salvos of their campaign, Rubio and Demings zero in on crime as a central issue in this year’s US Senate race. It’s not unusual for candidates to try to one-up each other when it comes to law and order. Voters are rightly concerned about public safety, their fears amplified by a constant stream of news stories of muggings and murders. And this summer, we’ve seen recall elections against liberal district attorneys in San Francisco and Los Angeles whose “reform” policies easily translated into leniency on crime. Rubio tried to challenge Demings’ law enforcement credentials with the backing of 55 sheriffs, in addition to the backing of leaders of the Police Benevolent Association and the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Last week, Demings made her campaign’s first television ad, touting her 27 years as a police officer, including seven years as Orlando’s police chief.
Assignment Editors: Crist is hosting a virtual roundtable on Protecting Black History in observance of June 16. The event includes House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell, Daytona Beach City Commissioner Paula Reed, and other Black community leaders at 4:30 p.m. RSVP and Zoom link by emailing [email protected]
“Wilton Simpson on track to become Ag. Commissioner, but must first beat a can of tomato” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics – It looks like Simpson has a pretty clear path to becoming Florida’s next Agriculture Commissioner. With the qualifying period closed, Republican Trilby faces only token opposition in a Republican primary and underfunded opposition from Florida Democrats. James Shaw, whose biography mentions that he owns a 30-acre composting farm and has owned three Auntie Anne’s pretzel franchises, paid the qualifying fee to appear on the ballot. But Shaw has raised about $37,000, $35,000 of which is out of pocket. Meanwhile, he has reported more than $69,000 in spending but, to date, has received little attention as a candidate.
“Jimmy Patronis, Adam Hattersley advance directly to General Election in CFO race” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics. It looks like there will be no primary season in the CFO race. Former state Rep. Hattersley was the only Democrat to qualify for the cabinet position. Patronis will also not see a challenge within his own Party. Patronis has served in the cabinet position since 2017 when then-governor. Rick Scott named it first. The position opened up after former CFO Jeff Atwater resigned to take a position at Florida Atlantic University. Hattersley launched his campaign for the job in March. He has focused on Patronis in the months since, hoping there won’t be a primary challenger dividing Democrats before this year’s midterm elections. Hattersley served in the Florida House and ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2020.
“On final day of candidate qualification, appeals court rules DeSantis map to hold for 2022 election” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics – An appeals court formally reversed a lower court decision from block Florida’s new congressional map this year. The same day that the time for candidates for Congress ran out, the ruling arrived. The First District Court of Appeals ruled that Leon Circuit Judge Layne Smith deviated from the law when he ordered a different map for the 2022 election. “The temporary injunction of review is unlawful on its face,” it read. Read the appellate court decision. Smith, in May, declared that a map signed by DeSantis and designed by his staff violated the Fair Districts amendment to the state constitution by diminishing the ability of black voters in North Florida to elect a congressional representative of their choice. . He ordered not to use the DeSantis map and later lifted an automatic suspension after the state appealed his decision.
“Six Candidates Qualify for CD 4, With Aaron Bean Leading” via Wes Wolfe of Florida Politics: When the qualifying deadline hits Friday, three Republicans, two Democrats and a repeat candidate in the write-in position will run to be the next Representative from Florida’s 4th Congressional District. The Republican Primary features State Senator Bean, who brings considerable influence and connections from his time in the Legislature to the race. He will face Erick Aguilar, who initially ran to run in the Republican primary in the old CD 4 against U.S. Rep. John Rutherford, and health insurance contract analyst Jon Chuba. When Aguilar challenged Rutherford in 2020, Aguilar got 19.8% of the vote to Rutherford’s 80.2%. “Our nation is at a crossroads, being torn apart by a liberal agenda that stifles economic growth and seeks to silence family values,” Bean said when announcing his campaign.
—“Bean gets endorsement of 20 Clay County officials for CD 4” via Wes Wolfe of Florida Politics
—”Engineer faces main challenge against Byron Donalds” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics
“A crowded field fills the CD 15 race with strong candidates from both sides of the aisle” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics: Candidate field set in Florida’s newest congressional district. Five Democrats and five Republicans ultimately qualified to run in Florida’s 15th congressional district. The Republican field includes retired Navy Cmdr. Demetries Grimes, former Secretary of State Laurel Lee, Navy veteran Kevin “Mac” McGovern, state Sen. Kelli Stargel and state Rep. Jackie Toledo. Qualified Democrats, meanwhile, include political consultant Gavin Brown, former TV host Alan Cohn, video producer Eddie Geller, Army veteran Cesar Ramirez and aerospace contractor Bill VanHorn. With Florida gaining a congressional seat based on the 2020 Census, Florida had to make room for one more seat.
“Vern Buchanan wants a powerful job in Congress, but he must win re-election first” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics: Rep. Buchanan appears to be on the verge of the most power he has ever held in Congress. But first he must deal with a Primary challenge from a headline-making activist, Martin Hyde. The congressman qualified to run in Florida’s 16th congressional district. As of the first quarter of the year, it has more than $1.5 million in cash on hand. Meanwhile, the planets seem to be aligning for Buchanan to become one of the most influential members of Congress. With the retirement of Texas Rep. Kevin Brady, Buchanan is in line to be the longest-serving Republican on House Ways & Media Committee. If the Republicans regain control of the House, the Washington press reports that Buchanan is the favorite to assume the chairmanship of the committee.
Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Makes $30,000 Ad Buy: Democratic US Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick has made a $30,000 ad buy in the race for Florida’s 20th Congressional District. According to AdImpact, the purchase will air ads in the Miami and West Palm Beach media markets from June 6-22. Buying ads brings your total for the election to $95,000. Cherfilus-McCormick is being challenged by former Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness and Rep. Anika Omphroy in the Democratic primary. Republican Drew Clark also qualified for the ticket.
“Audrey Edmonson Doesn’t Qualify After Announcing Frederica Wilson Challenge at CD 24” via Anne Geggis of Florida Politics: Despite her announcement in March and documents filed with the Federal Election Commission, Edmonson was not among the who qualified to assume the position of representative. Wilson for the right to represent Florida’s 24th Congressional District. Instead, Wilson will face Democrat Kevin Harris of Miami Gardens in a primary. Republicans Jesús Navarro and Lavern Spicer also qualified. Edmonson, elected mayor of El Portal for the first time, served on the Miami-Dade County Commission beginning in 2005 and was the Commission’s chairman for 2019-2020. Term limits ended his term in 2020.
“Robert Asencio Seeks to Challenge Carlos Giménez on CD 28” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics: In a last-minute move before Friday’s qualifying deadline, former Democratic state Rep. Asencio filed documents seeking to challenge Rep. American Gimenez in Florida’s 28th congressional district. . The move could give Democrats a serious challenge to oust the first-term incumbent. Asencio served one term in the House, representing the boundaries of the old 118th House District. He lost a 2-point race in 2018 to now-Republican state Rep. Anthony Rodriguez, who is now leaving the Legislature for a seat on the Miami-Dade County Commission. It remains to be seen how the rest of CD 28’s run will play out. Only Giménez, Karl K.W. Miller and Carlos Martinez Garin are listed as CD 28 candidates on the FEC website.
—”Six Central Florida Area Senate Elections Draw Contests” via Scott Powers of Florida Politics
—“At least 12 South Florida lawmakers conclude races unopposed” via Anne Geggis of Florida Politics
—”Clay Yarborough draws Democratic opponent in SD 4 race” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics
“Danny Burgess Gets a General Election Opponent” via Kelly Hayes of Florida Politics: Senator Burgess looks set to face a Democratic challenger in the general election for Senate District 23. His challenger, Mike Harvey, did not appear on the Florida Department of State. registrar of elections as of Friday afternoon, after the noon qualifying deadline, despite filing for the job in December 2020. Harvey also hasn’t filed a financial statement since last October, amassing more than a dozen of unsuccessful letters from the Florida Division of Elections, alerting candidates to possible penalties for failing to record their campaign finances. Even though Burgess finished his first term as a state senator, he has already risen through the ranks of Republican leadership.
—”Blaise Ingoglia picks last-minute Green Party challenger” via Mike Wright of Florida Politics
“Joe Gruters lures Senate primary opponent. Could the Democrats decide their fate? via Zac Anderson of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Gruters could be in the unusual position of campaigning for support among Democrats after he drew a primary challenger in his state Senate race, and a write-in candidate may not qualify. Michael Johnson qualified Friday to run against Gruters in Senate District 22, which includes all of Sarasota County and part of Manatee County. Whether Johnson can put together much of a campaign remains to be seen. Johnson could be a magnet for voters unhappy with Gruters, particularly Democrats. Democrats can vote in the August Republican primary race if no Democratic or write-in candidate qualifies to run in the 22nd District.
—“Seminole County activist challenges Gruters for Sarasota Senate seat” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics
“Conservative Activist Tara Jenner Fails to Qualify Against Jonathan Martin in Open 33rd SD Seat” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics: Jenner flew to Tallahassee to qualify to challenge Lee County GOP Chairman Martin for a seat in the recently opened State Senate. But later in the evening, the Division of Elections reported that she had not qualified in Senate District 33. “I’ll look into it and look at a few things and go from there,” she said. “At this point, I can’t panic about it one way or the other.” She hopes any problems with her paperwork will be fixed when the offices open next week.
“Ana María Rodríguez wins in a district that was recently considered unstable” via Anne Geggis of Florida Politics: Senator Rodríguez was first elected to a half term in the Senate in 2020; now, he won another four years as no challenger emerged after the deadline to qualify to run marked. The Republican real estate agent, who began her political career by winning a seat on the Doral City Council, was effusive in thanking the support. “I don’t know what I did to deserve this, but I am honored, grateful and just blessed,” she wrote on Facebook on Friday. “As a good friend says: Life is good when you live it well.” Rodriguez won a renumbered district in redistricting, from Senate District 30 to SD 40. Redistricting removed some of the northeastern portions of his territory, but was left largely intact. Covers southern Miami-Dade and Monroe counties.
FOP endorses Griff Griffitts for HD 6 — The Florida Fraternal Order of Police announced Friday that it will endorse Bay Griffitts County Commissioner in the race for House District 6. “We believe Griff will be a strong advocate for the police community at Florida House,” said Florida FOP President Steve Zona. “He has a heart for Florida, and we are confident he will lead District 6 strong, and we are proud to endorse his campaign for State Representative.” Griffitts faces Brian Clowdus in the Republican primary for HD 6. No other candidates qualified for the race, so all voters, regardless of party affiliation, will vote in the primary on August 23.
“Ralph Massullo, Two Others Qualify for HD 23” via Mike Wright of Florida Politics – Not the race Rep. Massullo had in mind. Instead of running against fellow Rep. Blaise Ingoglia for Senate District 11, Massullo qualified to seek a fourth and final term in House District 23. Massullo’s opponents: retired Florida Highway Patrol cop Tod Cloud and Paul Reinhardt, an unemployed Beverly Hills resident. All three are Republicans. The Aug. 23 primary is open to all voters, where the winner of HD 23 will be chosen. Massullo was elected unopposed the first time he ran and has had minimal opposition since, including Reinhardt, who campaigned as a Democrat. in 2018. Massullo has far surpassed both Cloud and Reinhardt in fundraising, with about $87,000 available in his campaign account plus another $350,000 in cash in Massullo’s campaign committee, Better Lives for Floridans.
“Bruce Antone Files to Rejoin House” via Scott Powers of Florida Politics: Former six-term Democratic Rep. Antone filed Friday to return to the Legislature in the new 41st House District. Antone, who previously served two terms in the 39th House District, and then, after the 2012 redistricting, four terms in the 46th House District, has represented parts of the west side of Orlando and the west of the Orange County for much of the 21st century. In HD 41, he’s up against Rep. Travaris McCurdy, who succeeded Antone after the 2020 election. That district already has a crowded Democratic Primary with Pam Powell, who once finished a respectable second to Antone in a Democratic Primary in the old HD 46, and Shan Rose. A Green Party candidate, Robin Harris, has also filed to run there, which would force a general election in the Democratic stronghold if she qualifies for the ballot today.
“Jason Holloway has released the first television ad of his campaign as he runs for the 58th House District.” via Kelly Hayes of Florida Politics — Holloway launched his first television ad while running for Florida’s 58th House District. The 30-second clip, titled “Keep Florida Free,” will air on cable and digital throughout the district, covering parts of Pinellas. County. The ad focuses on DeSantis’s catchphrase of a “free Florida.” “We are lucky to live in the Free State of Florida, under the best governor in the country, Ron DeSantis,” Holloway says in his ad. “Gov. DeSantis needs more patriots to back him, which is why I’m running for the state House.” Holloway’s alliance with the governor may be vital to clinch the Republican nomination, especially against a former lawmaker. Holloway faces former Rep. Kim Berfield in the Republican primary, as well as a third Republican challenger, Jim Vricos.
To view the ad, click on the image below:
“Future House Speaker Daniel Perez Secures Another Term After Qualifying Ends” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics: Future House Speaker Rep. Perez has secured another full term in the House. No candidate filed to run in House District 116, giving Pérez a clear path to a third full term in office. That’s likely a smart move for anyone considering a challenge for Perez. As of May 31, he had more than $2 million to defend his House seat and would have attracted overwhelming support from the Party and the institutions. Pérez first won the HD 116 seat in a 2017 special election to replace former Rep. José Félix Díaz. He added wins in 2018 and 2020 to serve his first two full terms in office. That 2020 pageant featured an interesting twist, as a political action committee with ties to outgoing House Speaker José Oliva released attack ads critical of Pérez. However, Pérez was unharmed. And this year, the field was completely cleared for Pérez.
“David Rivera Files to Run in HD 119 Open Contest, But Doesn’t Qualify” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics – For a moment, it seemed like former US Rep. Rivera was staging another political comeback attempt, presenting to apply openly. House District 119 contest on the last day of qualifying for state legislative offices. However, inexplicably, Rivera did not qualify as a candidate. The redesigned HD 119 covers portions of unincorporated western Miami-Dade County, including West Kendall, Country Walk, and The Crossings. Gabriel González has also qualified to run as a Democrat, the only candidate to do so.
—”Lake Ray garners more legislative endorsements in HD 16 effort” via Wes Wolfe of Florida Politics
—“Republican donations propel Juan Fernández-Barquin well ahead of his three challengers” via Anne Geggis of Florida Politics
“DeSantis Wants Panel to Investigate Trafficking and Sanctuary Cities” via The Associated Press: DeSantis called on Friday for a state grand jury to be established to examine networks that illegally traffic people into the state as part of an investigation that will also be would focus on local governments. saying they violate state law by adopting “sanctuary” policies. DeSantis filed a petition with the Florida Supreme Court requesting that the grand jury be established. DeSantis announced the petition at a press conference with law enforcement officials in Pensacola, where he also signed a bill that would require county jails to assist federal agents with immigration enforcement and prohibit state governments from and locals do business with contractors who bring people who are in the United States illegally to Florida.
“DeSantis Signs Measure To Crack Down On Retail Theft” via Kelly Hayes of Florida Politics: DeSantis has signed a measure aimed at cracking down on retail theft, which will go into effect in October. The bill (SB 1534) toughens penalties against thieves who steal multiple items from multiple stores in a short period of time. Although the Senate passed the proposal unanimously, a majority of House Democrats opposed the bill by a vote of 80 to 36. Senator Jim Boyd and Representative Chuck Clemons sponsored the legislation after an increase in theft organized from retail stores across the country last year. A study by the National Retail Federation shows that 69% of retailers have seen an increase in organized crime in the past year. In December, Florida made national news when more than $1 million in assets were stolen from a small business in Palm Beach.
“DeSantis signs measure returning beach smoking bans to local governments” via Kelly Hayes of Florida Politics: Local governments can now regulate cigarette use on the beach after DeSantis signed the new measure into law on Friday. The new rule (HB 105) authorizes cities and counties to regulate cigarettes in parks, including beaches. That’s a change from Florida’s previous law, which restricted the right to regulate outdoor smoking to just the state. Many cities and counties have tried to ban smoking on beaches in the past, but a ruling in a 2017 case brought by the ACLU against a smoking ban in Sarasota parks made it clear that no local ordinance could regulate outdoor smoking. free. Senator Joe Gruters and Representative Randy Fine sponsored the legislation. He cleared the Senate by a 30-7 vote and the House by a 105-10 vote.
“Fight Against Child Support Laws Goes to DeSantis” via CBS Miami – After years of legislative battles over the issue, DeSantis faces a decision on whether to approve renewal of the state’s child support laws. On Friday, the Legislature sent a contentious child support bill (SB 1796) to DeSantis, along with many other bills that passed during the legislative session that ended in March. Former Governor Scott twice vetoed child support overhaul proposals. One of the most controversial parts of this year’s bill would change the alimony modification process when people who have been paying seek to retire. Critics argued the plan could impoverish ex-spouses who have been homemakers and depend on payments.
Oops: “Justice Renatha Francis lied on her application to join the Florida Supreme Court” via FloridaBulldog.org’s Noreen Marcus: Francis, a family court judge in West Palm Beach who is said to be a favorite of DeSantis for the job, answered “No” when asked, “Has a complaint about you ever been filed with the Commission on Judicial Qualifications?” If so, the applicant must provide details to the JQC, a state agency that investigates allegations of judicial misconduct. Francis signed the application he submitted to the Supreme Court’s Judicial Appointments Commission and stated that he answered all questions “truly, fully and completely.” In fact, at least one, and as many as three, JQC complaints have been filed against Francis. Making a “false written official statement with the intent to mislead a public servant in the performance of official duty” is a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500 under Florida Statutes . Section 837.06.
“‘My child will die.’ These families say Florida’s moves to withhold gender transition care will lead to self-harm” via Cindy Krischer Goodman of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel: In Florida, Recent State Actions Threaten the medical and psychological care for transgender youth, say more than a dozen families of transgender youth and children. They say years of earnings would be erased if the state makes transition-related care hard to get or pay for. Families credit transitional care and gender-affirming therapy for not only allowing their children to become the sex they feel they are, but also for keeping their children alive. The DeSantis administration moved forward Friday with a proposal that would deny Medicaid coverage for treatments such as puberty-blocking drugs and hormone therapy for transgender people. Florida health officials are asking medical professionals to ignore federal guidance and stop helping children and teens with gender transitions.
Report says new UF policies protect academic freedom: UF’s accrediting agency, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, said recent changes in university policy have satisfied concerns about academic freedom. Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO Florida reported that SACS began investigating UF policies after three professors were prevented from testifying in a lawsuit challenging voting rights legislation. Although the decision was later reversed, the underlying policies were criticized by university faculty and later by SACS. According to a report produced by SACS, recent policy changes at UF are “efficient and compliant with state and federal regulations without raising questions about academic freedom.” In a statement Friday, UF said the report “affirms the university’s commitment to academic freedom for its faculty members and First Amendment guarantees of the right to free speech.”
“Investor, Advocates Sue Medical Marijuana Regulator” via POLITICO’s Mona Zhang: The Sunshine State has a marijuana transparency problem. A cannabis investor and medical marijuana patient advocate is suing the state after regulators allegedly failed to provide public records and approved a cannabis investment firm’s request to hold more licenses than allowed under state law. The suit is the latest development in the legal saga of cannabis investment firm Gotham Greens Partners’ bid to wrest control of the multi-state marijuana company iAnthus from investors such as Michael Weisser, one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit. The latest legal dispute comes after the Ontario Superior Court of Justice approved a proposed recapitalization transaction for Gotham Green to take control of iAnthus in 2020 after the latter defaulted on a loan. The proposal requires regulatory approvals from US states, many of which have cross-ownership restrictions to break down monopolies in the industry.
Good news, Jordan: “NRA lobbyist Art Thomm to lead lobbying arm in Florida after Marion Hammer’s retirement” via The Capitolist’s Jordan Kirkland: The NRA is selecting Thomm to replace lobbyist Hammer after that she announced her retirement on Thursday. The NRA told The Capitolist that Thomm, a veteran NRA lobbyist, will take over as Florida’s new state director for the gun rights advocacy group’s lobbying arm. The West Virginia native is no stranger to advocating for pro-gun policies. He helped pass Constitutional Transportation in several states across the country and currently serves as the NRA-ILA State Director for Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, and West Virginia. Prior to his stint as NRA-ILA State Director of Legislative Affairs, Thomm started as a state liaison for the NRA. He also served as vice president of the West Virginia Citizens Defense League. Thomm said he’s excited to be following in the footsteps of an “absolute icon” and helping protect and promote the Second Amendment in the Sunshine State.
“COVID-19 Vaccine Count Drops By 60,000; The DeSantis administration won’t say why” via Chris Persaud of The Palm Beach Post: Florida removed tens of thousands of people from its COVID-19 vaccination count in the last two weeks, and DeSantis administration officials they refuse to explain why. Florida’s inoculation count dropped by 60,514 people, state Department of Health figures released Friday show. The state’s published vaccination total had dropped by more than 1,000 every two weeks since April 8 in its biweekly COVID-19 reports, but this was the first time it had posted a five-figure decline. Health Department press secretary Jeremy Redfern declined to explain the fall. He has said the immunization totals are “preliminary” but has offered no further explanation for the declines. When asked on Friday to explain the five-figure decline, he replied: “Same reason as always.”
“Biden Sends All the Signals He’s Running Again” via The Washington Post’s Tyler Pager and Michael Scherer: Advisors to President Biden have been studying a spring 2023 re-election announcement that would echo the Trump calendar. former President Barack Obama. They have flooded 2,024 battleground states with millions of dollars to build up Democratic operations ahead of the next presidential campaign. And under the leadership of the Biden team, the Democratic National Committee has decided not to put together a talk show for a contested nomination fight. His advisers’ goal is to send as many messages as possible that Biden is ready, able and determined to carry the Party’s flag in another presidential election, especially if the opponent is his nemesis, Trump.
“Biden’s Lengthy Deliberations on Some Key Policy Decisions Frustrate Democrats” via The Wall Street Journal’s Andrew Restuccia, Catherine Lucey and Natalie Andrews: Biden’s recent commencement address at the University of Delaware, his alma mater, It seemed like the perfect place to announce a long-awaited student debt forgiveness plan. The speech came and went without a word on debt reduction. Biden was still deliberating and may not announce a decision until later this summer, frustrating some of his allies who believe internal discussions have dragged on too long. Faced with politically difficult decisions, the president sometimes hits the brakes and rejects calls for a quick outcome. Instead, according to administration officials, he favors deliberations that can last for months, with political advisers looking at the issue from multiple angles in a series of meetings. The president’s tendency to proceed cautiously has at times annoyed some of his own aides.
“Biden Hosts Climate Meeting Amid High Gas Price Pressure” via Seth Borenstein Chris Megerian of The Associated Press — Equating the oil and gas industry with Big Tobacco, the U.S. Secretary General United Nations chief Antonio Guterres said Friday that “fossil fuel producers and financiers have humanity by the throat.” But Biden was not eager to fight. With energy prices soaring and global warming weighing on the world at the Forum of Major Economies on Energy and Climate, Biden spoke about trying to ease the pain of high gasoline prices while pushing long-term green policies.Ruling out the idea of boosting gasoline production, the top diplomat of the United Nations discarded traditional diplomatic niceties and bluntly vilified the fossil fuel industry in a virtual session that included to Saudi Arabia, China, Europe and Egypt, countries rich in oil, which will host the next meeting of the United Nations. Summit of nations on climate change. It was the first time that Guterres compared the energy industry to tobacco interests.
“How political fortunes have changed in the decade since Rick Scott was mocked meeting the Spanish king” via The Palm Beach Post’s Antonio Fins: “Just don’t mention the elephants,” I joked. My joking comment was a reporter’s ploy to buy time with a politician on his way out. But he inadvertently set the stage for a transatlantic rampage just weeks later. The politician with whom I sought to prolong a conversation was the then governor. scott And the storm of taunts? It erupted weeks later, in May 2012, after Scott’s audience with King Juan Carlos of Spain, a meeting in which the governor went ahead and discussed the elephants. Ten years later, the awful reunion is largely forgotten, but its reflection in the rearview mirror is a revealing juncture in Florida and European politics. Five months after Juan Carlos’ abdication, Scott won a second term as governor. Four years later, he bested incumbent Bill Nelson in a close 2018 US Senate race.
“Congresswoman recounts her ‘proudest moment’ as COVID-19 relief contracts draw new attention” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — When Cherfilus-McCormick began self-financing her successful campaign for Congress In 2021, the company the CEO was at at the time began to receive a new source of income: providing COVID-19 vaccines in underserved communities. Five contracts listed in a state database show Trinity Health Care Services of Miramar received nearly $8.1 million for its vaccine work. Records do not show how much it cost Trinity to meet its obligations under the contracts, and how much the family business profited from.
Happening Today: Cherfilus-McCormick holds a press conference to discuss housing issues. Joining her are Senator Bobby Powell and Representative Jervonte Edmonds, 10:15 a.m. m., Mangonia Park City Hall, 1755 East Tiffany Dr., West Palm Beach.
“Recession Chance Soars as Inflation Worsens” via Harriet Torry and Anthony DeBarros of The Wall Street Journal: Economists have dramatically increased the chance of a recession, now pegging it at 44% in the next 12 months , a level usually seen only on the verge of recession. or during real recessions. The likelihood of a recession rose rapidly this year as inflation pressures remained strong and the Federal Reserve took increasingly aggressive steps to control them. Economists, on average, estimate the probability that the economy will be in a recession at some point in the next 12 months at 28% in the latest Journal poll in April and 18% in January. Since the Journal began asking in mid-2005, you’ve rarely seen a 44% chance of a recession outside of an actual recession. In December 2007, the month the 2007-2009 recession began, economists assigned a probability of 38%. In February 2020, when the last recession started, they assigned a 26% probability.
“Trump lashes out at Jan. 6 committee while mocking 2024 race” via Jill Colvin of The Associated Press – Makes her first public appearance since the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 insurrection began their audiences, exposing their desperate attempts to subvert democracy. and remain in power, Trump lashed out at the committee on Friday as he continued to tease his plans for a third presidential bid. Speaking to religious conservatives at a sprawling complex near the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Trump criticized the committee’s efforts as a “theatrical production of partisan political fiction” and insisted he had done nothing wrong. “What you are seeing is a complete and total lie. It’s a complete and total fraud,” he said at the Faith and Freedom Coalition’s “Road to the Majority” conference. He dismissed the harrowing video footage and scathing testimony submitted by the committee as selectively edited.
“Trump Slams Mike Pence Over Jan. 6 Role As Potential 2024 GOP Candidate Gathering” via The Washington Post’s Annie Linskey, Isaac Arnsdorf, and Josh Dawsey: Trump used an evangelical lecture here to ridicule former Vice President Pence for defend the Constitution on January 1. On January 6, 2021, choosing a hearing representing Pence’s political base as a venue to try to undermine him. “Mike Pence had a chance to be great. He had a chance to be historic,” Trump said in his first comments about his one-time partner in government amid committee hearings on Jan. 6 that revealed the intense pressure Pence endured in deciding to go ahead with his constitutional role by certifying the elections. The 90-minute speech was the first time Trump had rebutted the committee’s Jan. 6 proceedings in person.
—“Pence considers 2024 candidacy as Jan. 6 hearings remind voters of his break with Trump” via Alex Leary and John McCormick of The Wall Street Journal
“It wasn’t just about the Proud Boys. The interconnected extremists met on January 6.” via The Washington Post’s Michael Jensen — Super Happy Fun America, Woodland Wild Dogs, and America First Bruins aren’t household names in the way that Proud Boys, Oath Keepers, and QAnon are. But they are also groups whose members or associates have been accused of involvement in the Jan. 6 attack on Capitol Hill last year. This constellation of groups that in some cases serve as incubators for insurgents and bridges for like-minded extremist movements challenges the popular notion that the mob was filled with “ordinary Americans” who were “caught in the moment” like many of its proponents. The lawyers have argued, or “ordinary citizens engaged in legitimate political speech,” as the Republican National Committee described them in its censure of the two Republican lawmakers who are part of the House select committee investigating the attack.
—“Proud Boys spearheaded major Capitol violations Jan. 6, video investigation finds” via The New York Times’s Natalie Reneau, Stella Cooper, Alan Feuer and Aaron Byrd
“Miami has one of the highest COVID-19 infection rates in the US. Will the virus hurt summer tourism?” via Anna Jean Kaiser of the Miami Herald — Miami-Dade County is experiencing its biggest spike in COVID-19 infections since the omicron variant swept through the region in January. However, tourists interviewed last week were not discouraged from traveling to South Florida due to the increased risk of contracting the pandemic disease. As of June 13, Miami-Dade’s coronavirus test positivity rate rose to 21%, up from 5% in early April, raising alarm among local public health officials and turning the area into a coronavirus hotspot among major US tourist destinations. Tour operators in the Miami area have rebounded considerably over the winter and are seeing a strong boost in the summer. The industry remains a source of revenue for Miami-Dade, so another pandemic-induced travel shutdown would be devastating for local airlines, hotels, cruise lines, restaurants and bars.
“’Miracle Boy’ survived the Surfside building collapse but lost his mother. She is now on a long road to recovery with Dad by her side.” via Susannah Bryan of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Jonah Handler, whose dramatic nighttime rescue was captured on camera, plummeted 10 stories to the ground when the Champlain Towers South condominium collapsed June 24 in Surfside last year, killing to 98 people. “Please don’t leave me, please don’t leave me,” Jonah, then 15, pleaded. Through the darkness, he got an answer that was reassuring and true: “We’re not going anywhere.” Rescuers soon arrived, using Air Jacks to free him from the wreckage. Jonah’s mother survived the fall but later died at the hospital. He was 54 years old. Jonah, now 16, lives with his father in Champlain Towers North.
“Trouble Rush: Why Miami-Dade’s Drain Problems Won’t Be Fixed Any Time Soon” via Alex Harris of the Miami Herald: In Little Havana, a woman rushed to store her medication in a foam cooler after a foot and a half of water. in his house he destroyed his refrigerator. Your neighbor’s landlord waded through the floodwaters, but only to collect rent, with no promise to help repair the dirty water damage he spent the day cleaning up. In Allapattah, a mother carried her son and his wheelchair through the floodwaters to reach the emergency room. Days after the storm, her street was littered with soggy carpets and furniture, and mold was already taking hold. In Cutler Bay, residents missed work and school after an “unprecedented” 15 inches of rain left them stranded in their homes. Tow trucks pulled out hundreds of stalled or flooded cars. More than 100 people called Miami-Dade’s 311 line with flood complaints during South Florida’s first taste of tropical weather this year, some from places that flood over and over again.
“A ‘historic’ election in Coral Springs will reach its full potential” via Anne Geggis of Florida Politics: Joshua Simmons was elected to the Coral Springs City Commission as the first Black person on the dais, and on Friday he learned that he would get another four years. He will reach his full potential to serve on the City Commission, Seat 4. Friday’s qualifying period ended with no one challenging his second term. Two four-year terms on the City Commission is the maximum allowed by Coral Springs City Charter. On Twitter, he celebrated. “During my first term, we made history and I learned how to be a good and responsive elected official,” he wrote. “We have another term, my last term, to continue the great work we started in 2018.”
“Chris Latvala will succeed Karen Seel on the Pinellas County Commission” via Kelly Hayes of Florida Politics: Rep. Latvala will succeed Seel on the Pinellas County Commission after qualifying for the job unopposed, sending him directly to the position from District 5. Latvala currently represents House District 67 in the Legislature. But having served in the House since 2014, he faces term limits. During that time, the Republican lawmaker has enjoyed being a part of the House’s leadership, including chairing the Education and Employment Committee. During her brief time on the formal campaign trail, Latvala garnered high-profile endorsements from Tampa Bay leaders, including support from outgoing House Speaker Chris Sprowls and Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri. Latvala also made huge strides in fundraising, raising $106,110 for her run.
—“Pinellas County Commission racing takes shape as qualifying period ends” via Tracey McManus of the Tampa Bay Times
— “Tampa Bay School Board Races Set Amid High Political Interest” via Jeffrey Solochek and Marlene Sokol
“10 years after DACA, Central Florida Dreamers are still in limbo” via Kate Santich of the Orlando Sentinel — Melani Candia came to Florida 23 years ago, when she was 6 years old. She went to elementary, middle and high schools here, and now teaches first grade in Orlando, specializing in helping children with developmental disabilities. But when she enrolled in graduate school at UCF, she was not considered an in-state resident. Instead, they charged him out-of-state fees, about 3½ times higher than in-state rates. “It’s close to $4,000 a class and honestly that’s almost impossible for me, even if I had a burst of energy after teaching all day and could take a second job,” he said. Candia is a beneficiary of DACA, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, announced 10 years ago this week. Intended to prevent the mass deportation of honest and law-abiding youth brought to the United States as minors, it was once hoped that Congress would provide DACA recipients with a path to citizenship.
“Tampa Bay’s eligible voters could help decide Colombia’s presidential election” via Myriam Warren of the Tampa Bay Times — With Colombia’s presidential election looming, the coffee-producing South American country is becoming more divided by the day, as evidenced by the results of the first electoral round of May 29. It was then that the left-wing candidate Gustavo Petro, 62, former mayor of Bogotá and former guerrilla, obtained 40% of the vote. He will be challenged by the engineer Rodolfo Hernández, a former mayor of Bucaramanga who is little known in the Colombian political arena. Some Colombians compare Hernandez to Trump, calling him the “Colombian Trump.” On May 29, 3,235 Colombians from the Tampa Bay area went to the polls. The Colombian Consulate in Orlando includes 31,200 registered Colombian voters: 8,000 in Tampa, 1,600 in Jacksonville and 21,600 in Orlando.
“Disney’s delayed move to Orlando leaves some employees confused, analysts say” via Katie Rice of the Orlando Sentinel: The political fight over the so-called “don’t say gay” law and the reluctance of some Southern California employees to moving to Florida are likely behind The Walt Disney Co.’s decision to delay setting up its Lake Nona campus for more than three years, theme park industry analysts said Thursday. Disney revealed Wednesday that its plan to move 2,000 high-paying jobs in its Parks, Experiences and Products division to Orlando by the end of 2022 would not come to fruition until 2026. Reportedly, most of the jobs moving are located within Imagineering, Disney’s premier creative design division. Spokeswoman Jacquee Wahler revealed the new date Wednesday, saying the company’s only reasons for the change were to give employees more time and to accommodate the construction schedule for the new offices.
“For Central Florida Theaters, COVID-19 Still Wreaks Havoc, Costs Money” via Orlando Sentinel’s Matthew J. Palm: Central Florida Community Arts’ High-Profile Concert Staging of “Ragtime” Canceled Only just days before its scheduled opening this weekend, it’s just the latest example of how COVID-19 continues to plague Central Florida theaters. With the elimination of mandatory vaccinations and masks, and a return to full seating capacity, going to the theater can feel like business as usual for audiences. But behind the scenes, the pandemic is still on everyone’s mind as theater officials review union rules, testing protocols and worry about increased expenses when ticket sales have yet to recover to pre-Islamic levels. the pandemic.
“Patient death prompts Orlando Health nurses to sound alarm on staffing” via Caroline Catherman of the Orlando Sentinel: The suicide of a patient at Orlando Regional Medical Center last month has fueled the unrest among nurses over what some describe as a serious understaffing at the hospital, though a state review found the facility was not to blame for the death. On May 27, a TikTok user known as Nurse Nander posted a video sharing several widely circulated rumors, including that understaffing contributed to the May 16 suicide, in which a patient broke the window of his eighth floor room and jumped to his death. In the following weeks, the video garnered over 1.5 million views. Comments about the lack of staff and poor working conditions at Orlando Health came from dozens of users claiming to be employees.
“Volusia County Lifeguards Rescue 212 Over Busy Father’s Day Weekend” via Skyler Swisher of the Orlando Sentinel: Volusia County lifeguards warn of dangerous beach conditions with more than 200 rescued Saturday . Lifeguards pulled 212 people from the ocean as visitors flocked to the beach for Father’s Day weekend and to escape the extreme heat. Dangerous surf is expected to continue through the week. Large crowds are expected again Sunday, and visitors are urged to swim past a lifeguard tower and heed traffic signs, said Volusia County Beach Safety Capt. A.J. Miller. Lifeguards waved a red flag on Sunday, meaning there is a high risk of rip currents.
“Prominent Republican figure Christian Ziegler is not running again for Sarasota County Commission” via Anne Snabes of The Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Ziegler is not running for re-election to his District 2 seat. The noon deadline Friday passed without Ziegler qualifying. In addition to serving as County Commissioner, Ziegler runs a consulting firm, is raising three daughters and plans to help DeSantis and his wife, Bridget Ziegler, campaign for re-election for the Sarasota County School Board. . . With these duties, Ziegler said he doesn’t have time to devote to a full-time campaign for the County Commission.
“And Then There Were 5: Candidate Mathew Nemeth Drops Out of Crowded Jacksonville Sheriff’s Race” via Dan Scanlan of The Florida Times-Union: Jacksonville’s sheriff’s race already torn apart months before a special election on August 23 for the resignation of Mike Williams. , has changed again. Nemeth, one of six who applied for the top police job, dropped out of the race. In his announcement Friday, the 34-year law enforcement veteran also endorsed Chief of Investigations T.K. Water for work. Nemeth said Waters has “decades of law enforcement leadership” and the “right experience and integrity to lead the Sheriff’s Office.”
“No Claws Came Out During Tiger Bay Tallahassee Capital City Commission Candidate Debate” via Roseanne Dunkelberger of Florida Politics: Progressive Tallahassee City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow walked into the lion’s den, make than the tiger, on Friday when he appeared at the Capital Tiger Bay Club to debate David. Bellamy, who hopes to unseat the 3-seat first-term Commissioner. Comprised primarily of well-connected businessmen and retirees, the crowd of 125 members and guests heavily favored Bellamy, a fifth-generation Tallahassee and orthopedic surgeon, who entered the race in October 2021. A straw vote of the members favored Bellamy with 80% to 20%. Those who might have been hoping for the claws to come out for this showdown between the new guard and the old school were disappointed. When a question was thrown at them, their responses were often similar, if not identical.
—“Nassau County Commissioner Thomas Ford draws two primary opponents” via Wes Wolfe of Florida Politics
—“Jamie Deonas seeks re-election to Nassau School Board amid opposition” via Wes Wolfe of Florida Politics
—“Three seek open seat on Nassau School Board, Lissa Braddock unopposed” via Wes Wolfe of Florida Politics
“Okaloosa NAACP Calls for Expansion of Crestview Police Department Critical Incident Review Board” via Tom McLaughlin of the Northwest Florida Daily News: The family of Calvin Wilks met with his attorneys on Saturday to state that they are united in the fight to see three accused Crestview police officers face justice for their murder. “We are one as a family, as one for justice,” said Wilks’ sister, Linda Maples. “We ask for justice, not pity.” Attorneys Rawsi Williams and Michael Jennings, who were hired to represent family members, organized and attended the event. Lewis Jennings, president of the Okaloosa County Chapter of the NAACP, used the occasion to call on the city to expand the Crestview Police Department’s Critical Incident Review Board to include members of the public.
“Pence and the Christian Conflict on January 6” via The Dispatch’s David French: When Pence became the focal point of mob anger, he crystallized a religious conflict between two competing views of religion in politics . The mob’s focus was on power, and through power, it intended to “save America” from Biden and the Democrats. Trump, and the riots, were a means to an end, and the “strength” they sought was the strength to bring down the government and defeat their hated enemies. The mob Christians were not the only believers concentrating on power. Evangelicals participated at all levels in the fight to annul the elections. Trump’s evangelical chief of staff, Mark Meadows, texted Ginni Thomas: “This is a fight of good versus evil…Evil always seems victorious until the King of Kings triumphs. Do not tire of doing good. The fight continues. I’ve staked my career on it.”
“Trump voters need a new direction,” via Peggy Noonan of The Wall Street Journal: America will not elect him again. They’re not going to let that guy back in that house. Because everyone knows: let Trump go back there and he’ll do a 1/6 again. Because while his followers love America, he doesn’t. He likes where it goes, appreciates it as the stage for his greatness, but beyond that…Trump voters: call an audible again. Look at the field and the facts; be strategic. Trump, in the 2016 primary, tended to win with about a third of the vote. In a field of 17, that was enough. It looks like the Republican field could be bigger than expected in 2024 and of course Trump could run again and win the nomination again. It will be easier for him if past Trump voters don’t think strategically, and if donors big and small don’t move early to winnow the field.
“Florida’s change of course on COVID-19 vaccines for children under 5 was the right move, for the wrong reasons,” via the Miami Herald editorial board: Florida politicians love the choice of parents, as long as the choice is the one politicians decree is “Right.” The most recent example of this GOP-driven hypocrisy was Florida’s refusal to pre-order COVID-19 vaccines for older children. in the state, those under age 5. For several days, Florida was the only state in the country not to mandate vaccines. Forty-nine other states met the federal deadline for reserving vaccines. Florida was the outlier and became quickly a pariah. On Friday, amid mounting condemnation of our state, the White House announced that DeSantis had relented. Florida would now allow health care providers to order v you cradle
“On Guns, Republican Florida Legislature Beats Democratic Congress” via South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board: Florida did more to stop gun violence after school shooting than Congress likely does after more than two decades of school shootings and gun slaughter across the country. The bipartisan framework that emerged from post-Uvalde negotiations in the Senate would allocate money for more mental health services. It would slightly strengthen background checks for those under 21 looking to buy military-style rifles. I would encourage states, offering federal money, to pass red flag laws. It would close the “boyfriend loophole” for gun purchases, possibly preventing all domestic abusers, not just husbands, from owning guns.
“FPL’s Blockbuster Pivot From Fossil Fuels Will Protect the Planet and Grow Business” via Rosemary O’Hara of The Invading Sea: FPL Plans to Exit Natural Gas. To hold themselves accountable, FPL and its parent company, NextEra Energy, published solid five-year benchmarks, not soft “net zero” promises to plant trees or buy offset credits. “We are not late; we are the first,” said CEO Eric Silagy. “This is about how we actually get to real zero. No one in any sector has made this commitment.” FPL will more than double its zero-carbon power generation in eight years. By 2045, it says it will remove the accelerator that is causing our planet to heat up and oceans to rise: carbon emissions. FPL’s accelerated march toward a carbon-free future is an extraordinary and welcome commitment from a well-run company that generally does what it says it will do.
“‘Game of Thrones’ Jon Snow sequel series in development at HBO” via The Hollywood Reporter’s James Hibberd: You know nothing about HBO’s post-Game of Thrones plans. The network has entered early development on its first sequel to its hit fantasy drama: a live-action spinoff series centered around fan-favorite Snow. Kit Harington is attached to reprise the role if the series moves forward. The actor was twice nominated for an Emmy for his portrayal of an action hero who fights to uphold his family’s noble values in a brutal world. The development signals an intriguing new direction in HBO’s handling of author George R.R.’s fantasy universe. Martin, a move similar to Disney+’s handling of its Star Wars and Marvel brands, where the streamer has seen success launching sequel series focused on the characters.
Celebrating today are Matt Harringer, our friend Todd Josko from Ballard Partners, Ed Miyagishima, and the amazing Ieva Smidt.
Sunburn is written and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Renzo Downey, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.
